USEFUL TO KNOW
Salt production methods
Salt production is one of the oldest and most widespread production activities in the world. Salt is obtained from underground deposits or by evaporating water from seas, lakes and underground sources.
Salt can be classified in several ways.
By origin:
- rock salt
- vacuum-evaporated salt
- naturally precipitated salt
By intended use:
- food-grade salt
- non-food or industrial salt
Packaging also varies with the application. Retail salt is commonly supplied in polyethylene or cardboard packs of up to 1 kg; 25 kg packs are also used. Industrial salt is supplied in polypropylene or polyethylene bags, including 50 kg bags and 1,000 kg bulk bags.
By grinding grade: grades 0 to 3.
By chemical purity or quality:
- extra grade
- highest grade
- first grade
- second grade
The physical and chemical composition of salt varies by deposit, production method, climate and processing. Extra-grade salt contains fewer impurities and a higher proportion of sodium chloride. Differences in sodium chloride content also affect the perceived saltiness.
